Marathon Florida Keys Journal
_{City of Marathon, Florida Keys, Paradise}

Volume 13 † Issue 10  † October 2007
[In The Keys] [Kitty Talk] [Internet Stuff] [Poetry Corner]
[Hockey Puck] [Twins of the Dark Star] [The Dull Stuff] [Advertising]

Marathon Florida Keys Journal proudly presents our 13^th year of quality publishing services. We continue to focus on the Florida Keys. The lead article is the In The Keys section that offers opinions and even some editorializing. There are also articles concerning the local political beat. These articles may be published in other media outlets. They might edit them to suit their needs. We appreciate your visit and patronage. Please enjoy yourself while you are here and come back soon! Please do us a favor and sign up for our monthly reminder of the next upcoming issue of The Marathon Florida Keys Journal. Please click on this link marathon_journal-subscribe@topica.com. When you get a return email to confirm your choice, sign up at Topica, but bypass all those solicitations. Thanks!

In The Keys {for current news, see our Daily News Queue}

[Puto Keeps Job] [Organically Grown] [Woods Corner Update] 
[News-Barometer Moves] [New Problems] [KMART] [NSWC] [Land Trust] [Turtle Update] 
[NSWC Garrett Letter] [Council 11th] [Code Board] [Marathon 1st Budget] [Parks/Rec Dept] 
[Save-A-Turtle] [Cycle Fatality] [City Hall Café] [MKCLT Update] [FIRM] 
[Marathon Final Budget] [Land Trust Update] [Turtle Season Ending] [Council 25th] 
[What's Happening!] [Miscellany] [Finally] [ACRONYMS]

~Some articles have photos, go to http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.~
~Events scheduled to be covered, go to http://runesofao.com/schedule/index.htm.~

August 30, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council met in a special call meeting to consider contracts including the city manager's contract. They held the meeting in the Sheriff’s aviation hangar. They had too many people for the second-floor training room. I counted five councilpersons, about 10 staffers, and over 150 public persons. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

There was some sparring over moving the Puto contract up higher in the agenda to accommodate the public. Councilman Don Vasil wanted to consider city contracts first. I believe he wanted to use that as ammunition to get rid of Puto. He has a real problem with Puto, because his "friends" don't feel like they can "control" Mike.

Twenty-eight people spoke on the issue. Only one wanted Puto to go. Two others had reservations, but still supported Mike Puto for Marathon City Manager. Twenty-five people wanted to keep Mike. The crowd was overwhelming for Puto. Some of the crowd got a bit surly with Councilman Vasil. Some that spoke for Puto were former two-time Marathon Mayor John Bartus, Dave Daniels, Stan Haines, Gene Cavanaugh, Ted Quinn, Josh Mothner, Rod Chambers, Rick Turner Chris Boyle, Dolly Sadowski, Hal Schumaker, Mark Smith, John Whalton, John Stiglitz, Dennis Rego, Bill Pruett, Bennet Orr, and former Marathon Mayor Jeff Pinkus.

City Manager Mike Puto then offered a one-year extension, six-month review/evaluation, termination at will, and no severance package. I’ve never heard someone doing that. Mike became the better man in that moment.

The council voted three different times on three different options. Councilman Pete Worthington moved to accept Puto’s proposal with goals and objectives added and authorizing City Attorney Jimmy Morales and Human Resources Director Susan Funk to negotiate the new contract. Mayor Chris Bull provided the second. Vice Mayor Tempest wanted six month not a year extension. This motion went down 2-3 with Bull and Worthington voting yes but the other three voting no.

Councilman Don Vasil moved to go on a search for a new manager and retain Puto month to month. He encouraged Mike Puto and Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis to apply though. That was grand of him, wasn't it? Councilman Mike Cinque seconded the motion. This motion went down 2-3 with the only yes votes from Vasil and Cinque.

Vice Mayor Tempest moved to grant a six-month extension, terminate at will, no severance package, and goals and objectives. Councilman Pete Worthington seconded the motion. This motion passed with the only no votes from Vasil and Cinque. Marathon City Manager Mike Puto will now have to prove himself under circumstances no valued city manager should ever have to face.

The last item of business was to consider all third-party contracts over $100,000. Mike Puto went through the contracts one by one. Some of those that were to be continued were the Finance Department, fire station construction, Building Code Administration, GSE, and Sweetwater Haulout. The federal lobbyist contract will be rebid. The IT contract will not be renewed.

The real surprise was the Middle Keys Community Land Trust [MKCLT] contract that is only $50,000 per year for workforce housing issues, a very important priority for the city. First, why was MKCLT contract considered with the others, when this contract is under $100,000? Apparently, Councilman Vasil added it at the last minute. The MKCLT is about to start construction on five units of Marathon workforce housing, and now the contract is in danger of not being renewed. Word has it that some in the city's Planning Department seem to think that they have not gotten any value from the Land Trust. The monthly reports provided by the Land Trust to the city contradict that. I would hate to see the Marathon-Land Trust partnership fail, while the Islamorada-Land Trust partnership continues to succeed. This one doesn't pass the smell test.

August 31, 2007 - Georgia - B. J. Darnell VMT, CKO from Animal Notes: Organically Grown. Buyers looking for pristine, all-natural foods are a bit jumpy, because China is sneaking in on the organic food market. Consumers who have turned to organic food in the wake of all the warnings about tainted pet food, antifreeze-dosed toothpaste, and levels of antibiotic in fish are in for a surprise. Upscale grocery chains are now importing popular organic snacks such as Edamame [Japanese Green Soybean] and canned staples such as kidney beans from China.

A friend told me she was eating some Edamame because it is a great source of protein. Her husband noticed that it was made and packed in China. They both thought that was somewhat bizarre. This was at about the same time that everyone began noticing that things coming from China are not necessarily what they were cracked up to be.

I have doubts that any produce grown in China is truly organic, regardless of the label. I find it hard to believe anything is organically grown in a country that abuses pesticides and where DDT is commonly used.

Organic produce imported from China carries the U.S. Department of Agriculture's organic logo and is certified by private firms authorized to approve use of the label. However, consumers who view that as a guarantee that the produce is pesticide-free are mistaken. The federal rules establishing the organic certification do not include routine testing for pesticide contamination.

Any pets made sick by any commercial food should be reported to the FDA's consumer complaint line.
Veterinarians are doing their best to keep on top of the situation, and your veterinarian can still be a primary source of advice on what's best for your own pet. Nevertheless, as long as the situation remains in so much flux, pet lovers must make an extra effort to be sure their pets are protected. Just because he sells, a brand name doesn’t always mean that it is the best. You have the right to ask questions!

Commercial pet food diets are not going away, and they have helped pet lovers to care for generations of cats and dogs. All pet lovers need for the short term not take anything for granted when it comes to pet nutrition and stay on top of the news.

While the majority of healthy dogs will eat what they are given, cats are hard to switch to a new food.
It can be a major challenge for those with developed palettes. With the recalls forcing many cat parents to seek new foods, it's important to know how to do it safely.

Cats are not finicky they are biologically programmed from infancy to recognize certain textures, smells and tastes as food. This is one of the reasons “feral” cats have to be retrained to eat prepared cat foods. Try putting a bit of the old food on top of the new. Don't mix them! You want your cat to get some of the new food when he eats the old food. Never let a cat go more than a few days without eating. You can try letting hunger do the work just so long. Just remember to put the food down and leave for 30 minutes then pick it up. Free feeding never got a cat to change his or her habits. Do that several times a day and you will be surprised when the food disappears. A creature of habit is the best description of a cat.

September 1, 2007 - Islamorada - L. E. Shaffer: Woods Corner workforce housing construction update. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The Middle Keys Community Land Trust and Islamorada are overseeing the project that will provide 16 families with workforce housing.

Ground preparations are almost finished. Foundation work should begin soon. The progress of the work will accelerate. Once foundations and infrastructure work is complete, the prefab housing will be shipped to the site. Work will progress even faster then. Contact the Land Trust at 305-743-5624 for more details and get an application for membership. Only members of the Land Trust are eligible for home ownership.

In the continuing series highlighting each director on the Land Trust board, Bruce Ferraro represents the Middle Keys Habitat for Humanity as well as being on the Land Trust board. He has home-building skills. Ferraro is on the Land Trust Construction Committee. Through their efforts, the Woods Corner workforce housing units are built to green standards, hurricane survivable, and offer many amenities not associated with income-restricted housing. Bruce Ferraro is a valued and experienced member of the Land Trust. Thanks to his efforts, the Middle Keys Community Land Trust has been successful on many quality projects.

September 2, 2007 - Big Pine - L. E. Shaffer: The News-Barometer is moving to new digs. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Publisher Steve Estes and his trusty crew have completed a move from Avenue A in Big Pine Key to the Marshall Building. This new location is near the US 1 Radio Station Studios. Quite fortunate for the lunchtime crew is the nearness of 2 for $20 Pizza on US 1.

This new location is near Mile Marker 30.3. Of course, we are all good at calculating that .3. Their phone number is 305-923-5370. Their fax number is 305-515-2939. Their email address is bigpinenews@aol.com. Their fantastic website is at http://www.newsbarometer.com.

Steve Estes provided some important information about the move. That information if paraphrased below.

The Barometer has been in the same location for six and a half years. They are actually moving back to the original location of the paper when it was founded 15 years ago. They made the move to consolidate rents on their two businesses, the other being Tropical Freeze soft serve ice cream.

Ummm, ice cream, I got to find that place. O, wait, the two businesses are located... Wow, ice cream. Steve said, "We are next door to US 1 Radio, to make it more convenient for customers of both." That explains that.

He also said, "The move gives us US 1 frontage on the ocean side, just down from the flea market, and had a turn lane for easier access."

Why in the world would we publish a story on a competitor? Well, Marathon Florida Keys Journal has always gotten on well with The News-Barometer, The Marathon Weekly, and The Conch Color. We serve different areas in different ways. The Journal is primarily on the Internet. The Barometer serves Big Pine Key and areas nearby. The Weekly serves all the keys up into South Florida. They are unique in their coverage of news and events, not quite easy to categorize. The Color is a photographic chronicle and covers people and events with color and talent. The Journal's relations with the Free Press, Keynoter, and Citizen is more competitive from their side. That doesn't have to be, but that is the way it is. I think all of us provide services across the spectrum of locations and people, and do so quite well.

September 3, 2007 - Georgia - B. J. Darnell VMT, CKO from Animal Notes: New Problems & China Update. Ordering online or from TV or magazine ads may cause you a lot of heartache in the future. Veterinarians are reporting more cases of heartworm a year than they did five or six years ago. It is not because people are not giving the medication it is because of the sources that they have been using to obtain that important medication. It is a false sense of saving when things are not what they are professed to be.

Purchasing medications from sources other than a veterinarian can have disastrous results for your pets. Out-of-date medications, medications not stored in the proper temperature or improperly shipped are causing pet owner major money problems. A kennel operator in the north has seven show dogs that have been on heartworm preventive all their lives. Several years ago, she started ordering her heartworm medication for an online veterinarian drug company. She had her dogs annual physical several weeks ago and the veterinarian said let's do the heartworm test just as a base line. She was in shock when he announced that 4 of her 7 dogs had heartworms. The cost to treat them and aftercare that will preclude their being shown will be in the thousands. Her veterinarian told her if she had purchased from him he would have been able to work with the drug company to get some compensation since he knew that she would never not give the medication as proscribed on her valuable show dogs.

I talked to another lady who explained she just received a bottle of tapeworm pills the expiration date/lot number labels were removed from the box and cut from the label. Now she has to deal with the company to get a product that wasn't tampered with - most likely, because it was out of date. I advised her that this should be reported this to the FDA, FCC and the Postal Service. It is against the law to remove dates and lot numbers from labels. Plus the Post Office frowns seriously on this type of scam.

Pet Food News: Menu Foods, the Canadian pet food maker who’s China-sourced, melamine-laced gluten poisoned hundreds of brands of American pet food, already faces more than 100 class-action suits. In its case, the big-name brands and retailers that it supplies - Procter & Gamble Wal-Mart, Safeway Kroger - are showing up as defendants too, and could become the crucial deep pockets if Menu Foods runs out of insurance coverage. A lawyer explained, that most states there is a duty on the seller to distribute a product that doesn't have poison in it. Indeed, with few exceptions here the retailers are typically liable.

They can seek indemnification from their Chinese exporters, but that will be their problem. U.S. lawyers who have been interviewed were not contemplating suing Chinese entities. In Chinese courts, insignificant damage awards and frequently unsympathetic local judges often make litigation pointless. One way or another, if they want to stay in business, Chinese exporters will have to become accountable for injuries to U.S. consumers and businesses.

It has become very evident that if China wants to stay in the world market as a major player, it's going to have to stand behind the products its companies manufacture. That means stronger regulation, more legal accountability - and maybe even more Chinese personal-injury lawyers. Welcome to our world China!

September 4, 2007 – Marathon – L. E. Shaffer: Marathon’s KMART store was rated D minus by KMART district. The Marathon Florida Keys Journal has been investigating as to why this store is so bad in customer service, cleanliness, and keeping quality employees. A number of sources outside Marathon have been used to continue this investigation and provide confirmation to its elements. This ongoing investigation has resulted in some very troubling results. I have hesitated in publishing even the first stage of our results. I don’t like stories like this, but this is another story that keeps getting worse and won’t go away. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

When you walk into Marathon KMART, you immediately see chaos on the shelves and on the floor. Stock and inventory is in disarray. You also don’t see any of the average 20 employees supposed to be out and about helping customers. Many employees avoid customers and plead ignorance in language and skills, both English and Spanish. You will rarely see more than one register open. When another register opens, it is because a significant crowd has built up front.

Compare Marathon KMART to other KMARTs in the Keys. Compare Marathon KMART to Publix. In Publix, the store is clean, well stocked, and there are employees everywhere helping customers or stocking or cleaning. The restrooms are clean. The employees seem contented for the most part. Employee turnover seems manageable. None of these things is so in the Marathon KMART. Why is that?

Marathon KMART middle management and some upper management engage in discrimination, illegal activity, and turn their eye to what is happening under their very nose. There are a number of former employees in the process of filing sexual discrimination claims and wrongful termination suits.

Marathon Florida Keys Journal has studied 11 cases of discrimination and/or wrongful termination so far. Middle management doesn’t document or abide by corporate standard operating procedures. Instead, you can be fired for your sexual preference, race, body piercing, and/or tattoos, or just pissing off a middle manager. Formal counseling and documentation is not routinely used. Many employees report that just trying to work and follow corporate standards can get you fired. Work too hard, and you can be gone.

More egregious is the rampant employee theft, employee to employee abuse, drug and sexual activities in the restrooms. Certain employees have figured out that they can be paid well by not making waves and not working at all. Alcohol freely flows and those few who do work are harassed. Be gay or bisexual and prepare to be tormented until you quit or are wrongfully fired. Finally, there is evidence of locals being harassed by those employees bussed to work at the Marathon KMART.

There are a few middle managers, some upper management, and a small number of employees poisoning a store that could be the best in the Keys. Although this is not the kind of story The Marathon Florida Keys Journal likes to do, we will continue to follow this developing story and keep you informed.

Efforts to conduct a dialog with KMART management were ineffective, but Marathon Florida Keys Journal did try to get that side of the story.

A number of sources were used in researching situations as stated above. One great site that uses plain English is http://employeeissues.com/i_discrimination.htm. For example, “Sex discrimination includes gender, pregnancy, childbirth and sexual-preference discrimination, and sexual harassment as well.”

September 6, 2007 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: The Nears Shore Waters Committee [NSWC] met at the library to discuss a full agenda. Ed. Jeri's notes were massaged into an article, but most of her notes are intact. Jeri is a member of the NSWC.

Boot Key Marina rate changes were approved by the committee. Go to http://www.ci.marathon.fl.us/index.asp?NID=26 and checkout the links on the right of the web page for current prices for various items.

Marathon Harbormaster Richard Tanner reported that he had talked with County Representative for Marine Services Rich Jones about getting markers installed before the high season.

Marathon Ports Manager C. J. Geotis is working on covered shelter and landscaping issues.

KAIR offered to pay for purchase and installation of sanitation devices for need boaters up to $250.00. Contact Richard Tanner at the city marina for more information. Phone is 305-289-7788.

Deputy Sheriffs Guerra and Paul will be covering the Marathon waters. They hope to have another boat to use within two weeks. Deputy Guerra will work eight hours, while Deputy Paul will work twelve hours. The number of days per week is not yet known.

Geotis and Tanner are coming up with the best action plan for wet storage boat removal. Sheriff's assistance will be crucial to such removals.

The committee approved a Letter of Appreciation for George Garrett. The letter will be transferred to city letterhead. Once that is done the committee will release the letter to the press and public.

Jane Packard will continue to check with the bus company, i.e. Key West Transit, to try to get the marina added as a stop.

Geotis hopes to present the 33rd Street Boat Ramp contract to council at their September 25th meeting. The same status applies to the marina bathhouse contract. On the Quay Boat Ramp, staff is still working with county and state representatives.

NSWC Chairman George G. Garrett should be able to provide a committee report at the council's September 25th meeting.

The NSWC members were asked to attend the October 2nd workshop on the marina. The next NSWC meeting will be held on October 4th at the Marathon Library.

September 8, 2007 - Middle Keys - L. E. Shaffer: Middle Keys Community Land Trust is very good at putting housing on the ground to save workforce families, but PR with the public and some cities is not their forte. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The Land Trust is successful and fulfills its contracts completely, because there are three things that make workforce housing work - money, land, and cooperation.

In Marathon, the city gave the Land Trust three lots. The Land Trust bought two other lots using contract money. Construction on these five units will start shortly.

Contrary to what some might think, none of this is easy and doesn’t happen in just four or five months. Regardless of any contracts, the Land Trust will continue to save workforce families. Soon 21 more workforce families will have new homes to add to the 31 already existing. Compare that to the City of Marathon’s dedication to workforce housing issues over the years. 

Continuing to highlight the Land Trust board of directors, this week is Dewey Acker’s turn. He runs Acker Marine Survey Company; their website is at http://www.ackermarinesurvey.com. The Ackers own a Land Trust home. His service on the board is highly valued due to his experience and common sense.

September 9, 2007 - Key West - Jeri Sears: Jeri provided this report from Russ Draper.
Fellow Turtle People:

First, I must apologize for not sending regular updates. I must admit, I've been complacent since the runways have been working so well. Other than that....I have no excuse. I guess it's best that I start from the back and work forward.

Our last crawl. which was #16, was 8/13/07. That was a false crawl, which occurred at Gate #5 on Smathers Beach It was near the volleyball court and a tiki hut, so I can understand why it was false (a false crawl is where the female comes ashore to lay a nest but -- for what ever reason -- frequently interference by persons or obstacles (bicycles, bodies passed out on the beach, etc.) or animals -- aborts the attempt and goes back into the sea. On this crawl she actually made a clutch but was interrupted before she deposited any eggs. Normally, once they actually start laying the eggs, they go into "a trance" and nothing can disturb them.

We still have two nests which are due to hatch:

The 50-day mark for Nest #11 (Crawl #15) at Higgs Beach is Saturday, 9/22/07; however, our nests have been hatching two to three days early. This nest is between White Street Pier and the condos adjacent to Rest Beach.... closer to the condos.... near the very last tiki hut. Although it does have a runway, I am sure this nest will have some lighting issues, so we should be really on top of this one....meaning, we need to take turns sitting by the nest beginning Wednesday evening, 9/19/07. I'll make a sign-up list. I recommend one-hour shifts starting at 8 p.m. and ending at midnight each night until the nest hatches. Please let me know your availability. If you haven't seen a nest hatch or been involved in a survey, this nest may be your last chance.

The 50-day mark for Nest #10 (Crawl #14) at Smathers Gate #9 is Thursday, 9/20/07. This nest is in a safe area, meaning the street lights have been turned off, but it is directly across from Key West By The Sea, which has done everything they can to stop lighting disorientations -- but there are some Keys Energy perimeter lights which could be an issue. With the runway installed, I feel this nest will not have any disorientation problems; however, I plan to check it frequently. Hopefully, you can do the same if you are in the area.

KWPD Chief Mauldin and his wife were present at a recent hatching on Smathers Beach, and he has promised full support to do anything he can to ensure there is no interference with nesting turtles.

Russ

September 10, 2007 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: NSWC Thank You Letter for George Garrett

City of Marathon Near Shore Waters Committee

Those of us who serve on the Near Shore Water Committee would like to Extend a very grateful "Thank you" to George Garrett and the Marine Resource Department for a job well done. George's involvement in the upgrading of the City Marina and the clean up of Boot Key Harbor was not just a job it was a passion. All of us who live here, and all those who visit Marathon have witnessed the improvements.

Through George's efforts, Marathon's City Marina Office today has a sound new roof, a back up 80 KW Generator, the marina itself has all new floating docks and two "state of the art" pump out boats. George was instrumental in opening the lines of communication between the F.W.C. the D.E.P. and the City Marina. Boot Key Harbor and surrounding waters have benefited with the installation of 226 mooring balls. This makes it the largest mooring field on the East Coast of the United States. Hundreds of derelict boats have been removed from the harbor. After Hurricane Wilma, we were able to secure the clean up of the harbor and the canals in a timely manner. Not to mention the retrieval of hundreds of lobster and crab traps and the installation of shoal markers. If you have noticed an improvement in the waters surrounding all the Keys you are observing the fruits of George's labor and the labor of the Marine Resources Department.

If George leaves Monroe County and chooses to move to another location, he will leave with the satisfaction of knowing that he made a difference in the community. Not a lot of us will have that said about us. Difference makers are a few and far between. George is a doer with accomplishments, not just a talker where words themselves are the end results. Difference makers and doers will always be missed and they will always be remembered. Time will allow accurate judgment to be passed on the current political situation. But before that time passes, again, our sincere thanks to George Garrett.

Sincerely,
signed: Jeri Sears, Jane Packard, Bennett Orr, Mary Belden

September 11, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council met at the Marathon Government Center EOC Room September 11, 2007. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. Mayor Chris Bull asked for a moment of silence for 9/11. City Manager Mike Puto introduced the teachers in Marathon.

Citizens' Comments
None

Agenda [Approval of Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated by asterisk (*).

Special Orders, Presentations, and Reports
Proclamations and Awards
1. Mayor Chris Bull read the Water Reuse Week Proclamation, but no one was there to receive it.

2. Mayor Chris Bull presented the Soccer Month Proclamation to several members of local soccer teams.

City Manager's Report
1. Community Services Director Susie Thomas WEC Mike Hatfield presented the wastewater update.

2. City Manager Mike Puto explained the new fire station time capsule.

3. City Attorney Jimmy Morales provided a list of suggested city manager goals and objectives. Discussion followed. Mayor Chris Bull discussed a monthly workshop with City Manager Mike Puto. Puto read a statement that identified his desire for an accurate list with measurable goals and objectives.

4. Puto explained the current status of televised meetings. City is not yet capable to televise live, but a recording of the meetings on a CD is doable. The CD could be given to the county television channel to play at stated times.

5. ADA compliance at the marina discussion identified the need for an evaluation.

6. City manager training for Mike Puto and twelve staff members starts soon.

7. Puto is still working on Building Department organizational items.

8. Fire station trenching started today.

9. Four applicants applied for Planning Director.

10. The fire station lease needs extended for two additional months.

Other Reports, Announcements, and Presentations
1. City Attorney Jimmy Morales presented the attorney monthly report.

2. Mayor Bull appointed Bill Sympson to the Parks & Recreation Committee.

3. Councilman Worthington requested startup money for the non-profit Florida Keys Scenic Corridor Alliance. Lynda Berrigan made a presentation to the council.

Other New Business Items and Information
*1. Council approved July 17, 24, 25, and August 8 city council meeting minutes.

2. Staff report presented by Planning Director Fred Gross. Contract is vague. Councilman Worthington was disappointed that Rick Casey didn’t stay at the joint council-affordable housing committee meeting. Vice Mayor Tempest read from the current contract items that she didn’t get according to her. Councilman Vasil thought that staff could do what the Land Trust was doing. Councilman Cinque thinks that it would be criminal if the contract is renewed, if the Land Trust is indeed not doing its job. 

Vice President Morgan Hill presented the Land Trust presentation. Founder Frank Greenman provided a follow-up presentation. Former Treasurer and City’s Affordable Housing Committee Josh Mothner stated that the committee recommended continuation the contract. Lynda Berrigan on the city’s Affordable Housing Committee reiterated the need for the Land Trust contract. Bill Wilkinson is not in favor of renewing the Land Trust contract. Rick Casey completed the Land Trust presentation.

Essentially, the facts contradict the attitude of staff and council. The Land Trust completely fulfilled the contract and then some. The Land Trust has saved 52 workforce families by the beginning of next year. What has the City of Marathon done?

The contract needs to be more specific with better reporting requirements. This needs resolved before Thursday’s budget meeting. 

Founder Frank Greenman, Vice President Morgan Hill, former Treasurer Josh Mothner, board director Bruce Ferraro, board director L. E. Shaffer, and Executive Administrator made a presentation on the Middle Keys Community Land Trust contract with the City of Marathon.

3. Building Official Welch presented a draft affordable fee waiver ordinance that lists certain agencies and non-profits. Donna Busold spoke for Carlisle Group. She wants the ordinance to be retroactive.

4. Construction staging on vacant Sombrero lot is a code violation. This was an informational item for the council. Rick Servais owns the lot. He spoke about the need for this somewhere.

Ordinances for Second Public Hearing and Enactment
Ordinance 2007-31 provides for the adoption of the new city code.

Ordinance 2007-32 amended Chapter 5.5 entitled "Boats, Docks, and Waterways" by amending Section 5.5-232(C) relating to wastewater discharge. Liveaboard vessels in canal, basin, or cove adjacent to any residential areas were added to the list of no discharge prohibition.

Resolutions for Adoption
Resolution 2007-128 authorized the city manager enter into Work Authorization No. Sixteen to continuing services agreement with Weiler Engineering Corporation for beach parking/road improvement plan/schematic from Avenida Primiceria to the end of Sombrero Beach Road for $6,300. Community Services Director provided the staff report. The city must use its right of way to improve parking and the roadway in front of Sombrero Beach. The issue is driveways opening on Sombrero Beach Road or onto a side road. She needs a decision to keep the project moving.

Resolution 2007-129 authorized the city manager to enter into a second amendment to Florida Keys Aqueduct Authority Interlocal Agreement, with, for due diligence inspections of both the Little Venice Wastewater Treatment Plant and records.

Informational items and reports
Code Board Attorney RFQ

Citizens' Comments
Scott Corff talked about ROGO and the amount of time to build. He thinks that it is too short. Jackie Walters responded about the new BPAS. 

Council comments
Minor items 

Adjournment
8:30 PM 

September 12, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Code Board meets at Sheriff's Aviation Hangar Second-Floor Training Room. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Prior to the regular meeting, new Code Board members Steve Pearson and Claude Halioua attended board members orientation class. Pearson and Halioua replaced Robert Maison and Edward Torrella who recently resigned.

Owner Bruce Decato was cited for a swimming pool and spa constructed/installed without a permit at property located at 11455 3rd Avenue Ocean. Case was continued to next meeting due to defendant heath.

Owners Diane Schaffer, John Calef, Shirley Calef, and Bradley Calef were cited for vacation rental undesignated parking, excessive vessels on property, and too much noise at property located at 222 South Anglers Drive. The board granted a continuance request and continued the case to the next meeting.

Owners Harold and Sandra Rogers were cited for overgrown grass and weeds, inoperable/unlicensed RV, and RV not park at the location on the registration. The board fined them $100 per day until they come into compliance. An administrative fee of $300 was also charged.

Owners John and Janet Miller were cited for an expired vacation-rental permit, too many vehicles parking on the street, and excessive noise at the property located at 787 30th Street. There were nine complaints over a series of several days. Several staff provided testimony as well as the owner and his agent. By a vote of 4 to 2, the board found the owners in compliance.

Owner Kelly Bazarte was cited for not completing work on a permitted sewer connection at property located at 11733 2nd Avenue Ocean. The $100 daily fine totaled $17,900 with the addition of the $300 administrative. Staff recommended the fine be reduced the maximum allowable of 75% that turned out to be $4,475 plus $300 administrative fee for a total of $4,775. The board granted the fine reduction request. The defendant ran into troubles beyond his control and was always trying to comply.

The meeting closed out with the board requesting staff provide new city codebooks when available. The board attorney explained the process of the city’s RFP for a new legal firm to provide a new board attorney. The meeting adjourned.

September 13, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council Special Call meeting for Fiscal Year 07/08 budget first public hearing. The meeting was held at the second-floor training room at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Here are the numbers: The tentative millage rate is 1.4493 mills. That is 8.42% below rollback, lowest in the county. Rollback is the rate that produces the same amount of city tax revenue from property taxes as last year. With all the revenue streams combined, the total budget is $71,229,116. These figures can't go up, but could go down at the final budget hearing scheduled for September 20th at 5:30 PM at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar Second-Floor Training Room. The total assessed value for property taxes was $3,147,706,094. Yes, sir, that is billion!

Why can your tax bill still go up even if every county taxing unit hits rollback or below? Look at the assessed value.

City revenue sources are property taxes [part homeowners pay], charges for services, fines & forfeitures, licenses & permits, portions of sales and gas taxes, and a number of other sources including reserves. The biggest revenue source for the city is reserves at 33% of total revenues. Property taxes called ad valorem taxes comprise 31% of total revenues. The city marina makes a profit and contributes to revenue.

City expenditures are police services, fire/EMS services, Parks & Recreation, and other expenditures. The top three expenditures are fire/EMS at 23.24% of total expenses, police services at 15.46%, and Parks & Recreation at 10.39%.

This council has set its heart at reaching 10% below rollback. The City of Marathon is uniquely positioned to be able to do this mainly through the efforts of City Manager Mike Puto, Finance Director Peter Rosasco, and Deputy City Manager C. J. Geotis. Of course, the staff efforts to craft such a demanding budget can't be underestimated.

The problem is that Marathon has about 12,000 residents of which about 6,000 are registered votes of which an average of about 1,600 actually vote. That leaves over 10,000 residents unrepresented. Those who show up at the meetings, call/email their council members, and vote are the ones heard most. That is about 1,600 residents at most compared to a population of 12,000 or thereabouts. In conclusion, the ability of the city to provide needed and desired resident services is impaired by every dollar that is cut. Already, the city is shorthanded due to the hiring freeze. Employees will be leaving for ventures that pay more, further exasperating the problem. We could be headed for very long lead times to get any services from the city and watching city staff count staples and paperclips. They had better damn well reuse paper, ink, paper clips, and so on to make it through the year. I hope that a hurricane will not upset the council's politically valuable 10% below rollback goal. Let's see what happens next!

Planning Director Fred Gross spoke on the Middle Keys Community Land Trust contract. He outlined what services he thought that the Planning Department desired and said that $5,000 per year would cover those services. Land Trust Executive Administrator Rick Casey stated that just to cover the cost of providing such services was $75 per hour. Land Trust Board Director [1 of 12] Larry Shaffer further explained that those services provided so far were more than $50,000. The council decided to investigate further and possibly make a decision at the final budget hearing scheduled for September 20th.

Let’s compare the Land Trust record with the City of Marathon’s record on workforce housing issues. The City of Marathon has yet to collect one dollar of workforce housing fees due by many developers. The City of Marathon rejected workforce housing impact fees of any kind at any dollar level, even though the workforce housing study commissioned by the city clearly demonstrated the crisis need for such impact fees. The city has taken little action on the many recommendations made by their Affordable Housing Committee. The city put out a fatally flawed RFP that is financially impossible to fund.

The Land Trust has 9 historical units at Overseas Village along with 4 new homes. The Land Trust owns and operates a 14-unit affordable rental complex called Seacrest Apartments. The Land Trust has 4 homes on 73rd Street. Islamorada Woods Corner is under construction with 16 Land Trust homes coming online soon. The Land Trust will soon start construction on 5 homes scattered throughout Marathon. That is 52 units for the Land Trust and ZERO for the City of Marathon!

After the budget hearing, the council convened for a workshop on the city manager’s goals and objectives. Councilman Cinque explained the difference between the strong mayor system and the city manager system. He further explained why the incorporators choose the city manager system.

Councilwoman Tempest read off her list of goals and objectives for the city manager. Immediately, she wanted office hours established. 30 days, she wanted a plan for city manager training. She also asked that the city manager office be rearranged and reorganized. Tempest stated that loss/inventory management and organizational plan are needed. She had other items for 90 and 120 day marks.

Other councilpersons cautioned against micromanaging the city manager and reminded each other that the City Charter prohibits meddling in the city manager’s ability to run the city based on council policies. The council decided to do less head nods and more votes to clearly define city manager action items.

Ritchie Moretti, Karen Wilkinson, and Jim Rhyne added suggestions as well to the city manager’s list of goals and objectives.

Councilman Mike Cinque closed out the workshop by stating that politics should not be used to retain a city manager. Still, democracy demands to be heard, and politics has nothing to do with it. Otherwise, don’t ask the residents to participate or even vote!

September 13, 2007 - Marathon - Ali Adams: What’s Happening at Community Park? By Ali Adams, Marathon Parks and Recreation Department Staff.

It’s hard to find a dull moment at Community Park. I have observed the past 24 hours, and an amazing amount of activity has presented itself. For starters, a great new program has just started for children age 5-7 who want to learn the basics of golf. For $25, youngsters and their parents are exposed to six weeks of introduction to the world of golf through Start Smart Golf. The Start Smart Programs are interactive, hands-on programs requiring parent involvement and learning along with the child’s development. “Child-size” golf clubs and other sports equipment make this a unique and challenging program. Over a dozen youngsters and their parents started this on Wednesday night, and this program will continue for five more weeks. There are more openings for future golf pros who want an early start.

Another exciting event this past Thursday morning, was a visit from the Middle and Lower Keys Playgroup. This group meets every Thursday morning from 10AM-Noon.

This particular morning, however, there was a very special guest appearance from Tracer, a two-year-old Belgian Shepherd, who has been trained over the past three months to detect illegal drugs. Tracer identified wrapped boxes containing cocaine and marijuana as part of the demonstration to the parents. The K-9 unit dogs have been requested from the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office from US Customs, Border Patrol, the Coast Guard, and FedEx. Tracer’s father is also a part of the K-9 unit in Key West. Her grandfather is over 14 years old and is still working in a K-9 unit. Sgt. Dennis Cain with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office arranged Tracer’s visit. Deputy Ken Fricke is her “handler”, set up, and conducted the demonstration. After Tracer’s demonstration, members of the playgroup enjoyed arts and crafts in the park, as well as activities in the sand box.

About an hour after Tracer and the playgroup were finished, a group of home-schooled youngsters appeared for their weekly physical education exercise. The activity varies from week to week, but it is open to any age home schooler who wishes to join at 1PM each Thursday. This week, it was an intense soccer game, led by Parks and Recreation staff member George Holzhauer.

As the day progressed, the skate park opened at 4PM and numerous soccer teams from ASYO leagues had games at Community Park. Across the street, the B, and C league Marathon Youth Club football teams and cheerleaders were practicing at Switlik School. Near sunset, a variety of musicians performed at the Community Park Amphitheater for the World Day of Prayer activities. In addition to all of these activities, citizens and visitors of all ages were playing tennis at one of the four-lighted courts, the basketball court had about 40 men and youth of all ages shooting hoops, and the skate park was full of youngsters enjoying the various ramps, bowl, and company of fellow skaters.

What an exciting 24-hour period! There’s more also before the end of this week. Other activities include a Friday night movie at 8:15PM in the Community Park pavilion throughout September, Art in the Park throughout September and October each Saturday morning from 9-11AM for ages 3-6, a football game in Key West at 1PM for the Marathon Youth Club vs. Key West Youth Club, and upcoming programs of Start Smart Soccer (starting in November for ages 3-5) and Friday evening Kickball (starting October 19) for ages 6-11.

Community Park is only one of several parks we supervise. If you or anyone you know wishes to reserve a pavilion for a birthday or party, or if you want to schedule an event or activity and desire some sort of park assistance, please call the City of Marathon Parks and Recreation Department at 305-743-6598. Reservation of a pavilion is free, but paperwork must be completed. All of the city’s parks are under the management of Mr. Jimmy Schmidt.

September 14, 2007 - Marathon - Jeri Sears: October President's Letter.  This will be our last meeting in 2007. We have our yearly banquet in November and we have a cookout for the Turtle Hospital in December.

Thank you,

Jeri Sears
President of Save-A-Turtle

Dear Supporters of Our Marine Turtles:

The Save- A-Turtle meeting was held at the Turtle Hospital in Marathon on September 10th. The board meeting started at 6:30 with the general meeting at 7:30. We had a large group at the general meeting - about 40 people attended. Russ Draper, the Save-A-Turtle coordinator for Key West, presented a very informative lecture on the nesting turtles in Key West. Because of the lighting issues in Key West, Russ has developed an ingenious method of setting up “runways” to guide the hatchlings to the water.

Jim Gamlin has agreed to be our guest speaker for the October 1st meeting. His topics will be on his research of the spotted turtle and excerpts from his book which is due out later in October.

You are all encouraged to join us for the board meeting at 6:30 and the general meeting at 7:30 at the Turtle Hospital.

I would like to remind the Beach Surveyors that it is time to start getting your paperwork together for your coordinators. Coordinators don’t forget to send Pat Wells your survey information as soon as it is completed. It is imperative for all the information we gather to be passed along.

Have a safe month and we hope to see you in October!

Jeri Sears
President
jermax_1@msn.com

September 14, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Motorcycle fatality across from the Sheriff's substation changed festive mood of the Poker Run. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

As you can tell from the photos, US1 claims more lives. Motorcyclists are a breed apart. Still, they are flesh and blood. They are people. All are valuable lives not to be wasted. While this accident is still being investigated, some common sense should prevail. Chopper heads should wear helmets, gloves, long-sleeved shirts or jackets, long pants, and appropriate footwear.

While going back and forth on business through the congested traffic backed up by the accident, motorcyclists were wearing all the above protection and still looked quite cool. It is not surprising what leather and Harley Davidson can do to one’s appearance. Of course, this is a free country, and killing or maiming one’s self is a right not a privilege. While this is a beyond good taste, maybe it needs mentioning.

September 14, 2007 - Islamorada - Tommy & Larry Shaffer: City Hall Café located on the corner of a nice-looking building has a great menu, better service, and a unique ambiance. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The Islamorada location is genteel and close to mile-marker 88.5. Their telephone number is that cute 305-852-DELI. The building contains fine specialty stores and creates that air of paradise. City Hall Café has an outdoor covered area that provides that special setting near sunset.

City Hall Café is that quaint corner of good food and atmosphere not quite totally touristy or over-the-top local. Something that is just fine in between those extremes. The service is friendly and customer centric. The food is simple, refreshing, inexpensive, and tastes good. The food looks and smells good too. So, if you are in the mood for some super sandwiches, unique salads, and quick lunch entrees, don’t pass up City Hall Café.

September 15, 2007 - Middle Keys - L. E. Shaffer: Islamorada Woods Corner, Land Trust, & Marathon update. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

The Land Trust's Islamorada Wood Corner venture is progressing well. Foundations, rebar, ground preparation, and a number of workers scurrying over all the work is quite pleasing to view. Applications are coming in a steady stream. As in the past, there will be more applicants than units, but don't despair. Be smart and put yourself on the Land Trust list. The board of directors won't stop building workforce housing for ownership and rental.

In a continuing look at the people who make up the Land Trust board of directors, this week the highlight is on Jill Bell. She brings real-world experience to the board. Her family owns a Land Trust home, which has provided a unique perspective to the board. Jill Bell is a tremendous asset to her community and certainly to the Land Trust.

Now for an update on Marathon: Let’s compare the Land Trust record with the City of Marathon’s record on workforce housing issues. The City of Marathon has yet to collect one dollar of workforce housing fees due by many developers. The City of Marathon rejected workforce housing impact fees of any kind at any dollar level, even though the workforce housing study commissioned by the city clearly demonstrated the crisis need for such impact fees. The city has taken little action on the many recommendations made by their Affordable Housing Committee. The city put out a fatally flawed RFP that is financially impossible to fund.

The Land Trust has 9 historical units at Overseas Village along with 4 new homes. The Land Trust owns and operates a 14-unit affordable rental complex called Seacrest Apartments. The Land Trust has 4 homes on 73rd Street. Islamorada Woods Corner is under construction with 16 Land Trust homes coming online soon. The Land Trust will soon start construction on 5 homes scattered throughout Marathon. That is 52 units for the Land Trust and ZERO for the City of Marathon. A partnership with the Land Trust yields results without a lot of PR!

September 16, 2007 - Florida Keys - Robbie Hopcraft: My Safe Florida Home wind inspectors to be in the Florida Keys next week to offer inspections. Representatives from one of the four firms authorized by the Department of Financial Services to conduct wind inspections as part of the My Safe Florida Home program will be in the Florida Keys next week. 

F.I.R.M. would like to hear from residents who have participated in the program. F.I.R.M. is interested in your experience with these inspections. If you have received an inspection, or if you are scheduling an inspection,
please contact Kim Mack of F.I.R.M at mack4046@bellsouth.net for more information.

***Please Read The Article Below For More Details***

My Safe Florida Home wind inspectors to be in the Florida Keys next week to offer inspections.

Representatives from one of the four firms authorized by the Department of Financial Services to conduct wind inspections as part of the My Safe Florida Home program will be in the Florida Keys next week. F.I.R.M. would like to hear from residents who have participated in the program.

Under provisions of the My Safe Florida Home program initiated by Florida’s CFO Alex Sink and the Department of Financial Services this spring, Florida homeowners may be eligible to receive a free wind inspection of their homes to identify steps they could take to harden their homes against wind damage. The inspections should also inform homeowners about what mitigation credits they could receive on their windstorm insurance premiums. Should the inspector recommend specific improvements, homeowners can then apply for grants of up to $5,000 to fortify their homes.

Owners of single-family homes (excluding mobile homes) are eligible for the free inspections. To apply for a free inspection, call 1-866-513-6734 or visit www.mysafefloridahome.com for an application and for more information.

Those ineligible for the free inspections may receive an inspection for a $150 fee. The companies below have been certified by the My Safe Florida Home program and may be contacted directly to schedule an inspection:

A representative from Don Meyler Inspections, Dave Detrick, will be in Key West on September 18 and up the Keys on September 19. Mr. Detrick can be reached on his cell phone at 954-496-5655 to schedule an appointment.

F.I.R.M. is interested in your experience with these inspections. If you have received an inspection, or if you are scheduling an inspection, please contact Kim Mack of F.I.R.M at mack4046@bellsouth.net for more information.

Fair Insurance Rates in Monroe is a grassroots advocacy group that has effectively fought for insurance rates in the Keys that are neither excessive nor unfairly discriminatory. For more information, visit www.FIRMkeys.org.

September 20, 2007 - Marathon - L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council held its final budget hearing at the Sheriff's Aviation Hangar Second-Floor Training Room. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Here are the numbers: The final millage rate is 1.4243 mills. That is 10.00% below rollback, lowest in the county. Rollback is the rate that produces the same amount of city tax revenue from property taxes as last year. With all the revenue streams combined, the total budget is $71,153,571. The total assessed value for property taxes was $3,147,706,094. Yes, sir, that is billion!

The $50,000 contract amount for the Middle Keys Community Land Trust remains in the final budget. Sometime soon the contract will be renegotiated. At this time, the fixed costs total about $16,000. The per event costs could max out at $36,000 depending on how many events are completed and hours worked.

September 21, 2007 – Islamorada – L. E. Shaffer: Woods Corner workforce housing project proceeds at due pace. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm. The Marathon Florida Keys Journal will continue to keep you updated with the progress of Islamorada’s 16-unit and Marathon’s 5-unit projects.

The last two directors on the Middle Keys Community Land Trust to be highlighted are Clarence Feagin and Larry Shaffer.

Clarence Feagin is a land-use and planning expert, highly educated and experienced. He is the Land Trust’s new Treasurer. He is also a Senior Planner for Monroe County. The Land Trust values his experience and knowledge. Clarence is also on the Overseas Village Homeowners Association board of directors as a Land Trust liaison.

Marathon Planning Commissioner Larry Shaffer is a ten-year activist in the Marathon political scene. He owns and operates The Marathon Florida Keys Journal. He has been on the Land Trust board of directors for over four years. Larry is also on the Overseas Village Homeowners Association board of directors as a Land Trust liaison.

Marathon Florida Keys Journal has introduced the entire Land Trust board of directors. With Josh Mothner’s resignation so that he could devote more time to his business, the Land Trust has an opening for a board director. You must be a paid-up member and have the desire to work hard without pay to help build workforce housing. Call the Land Trust office at 305-743-9648.

September 24, 2007 - Key West - Jeri Sears: 2007 Turtle Nesting Season Winding Down.
Key West had a fabulous turtle nesting season.  Thanks to all who surveyed the beaches and the City of Key West.  Our sincere thank you to Russ Draper, member of Save-A-Turtle and Key West beach coordinator. 

Sincerely,

Jeri Sears
President of Save-A-Turtle

Subject: 2007 Turtle Nesting Season Winding Down

Our last turtle nest hatched on Rest Beach on Friday, September 21st.  I will be doing a complete summary of all of our nests and getting it to you soon.  Key West has had 18 crawls with a total of 12 nests.  I haven't crunched all of the numbers yet, but it looks like our beaches have produced over 1,000 hatchlings.  Thanks, John Jones, for working so closely with us on our lighting issues.  Chief Mauldin, thanks for insuring our nesting turtles are not being disturbed by people on the beach after hours.

We will be suspending our morning patrols soon.

Russ Draper

September 25, 2007 – Marathon – L. E. Shaffer: Marathon City Council met at the Marathon Government Center EOC Room, 2798 Overseas Hwy. Tuesday, September 25, 2007 at 5:30 p.m. Photos are at http://MarathonJournal.US/journal/press/index.htm.

Citizens' Comments
1. Chris Boyle spoke on the vet event scheduled for October 7th at the Community Park. The event is growing bigger than anyone anticipated. It starts at 10 AM and ends at 10 PM.
2. Hans Stiglitz reported that there is not any money for MHS landscaping. He asked for $100 per brick to help in that endeavor.
3. Rick Servais talked on proposed city marina fees rising. He doesn’t want to compete with the lower prices of the marina.

Agenda
Approval of Consent Agenda passes all routine items indicated by asterisk (*).

Special Orders, Presentations & Reports
Proclamations and Awards
Mayor Chris Bull presented the Fire Prevention Week Proclamation.

City Manager's Report
1. The city is talking to Comcast. By the middle of October should know what is needed to install all equipment, do survey, get own channel, and determine cost. The current broadcast location at the Marathon Government Center EOC Room is through January 2008. The city might be able to broadcast from the new firehouse through county channel 76 temporarily.
2. The council reappointed Bill Kelly and Paul Kenson to the Unsafe Structure Board.
3. South Florida Water Management District provided about $1,000,000 for Sombrero Road reclamation and stormwater projects. One grant of $600,000 was issued due to Marathon being so far ahead on their projects.

Other Reports, Announcements, & Presentations
1. C. J. Geotis reported FEMA Trailer Extensions for two resident families. Council granted a six-month extension.
2. Councilman Vasil appointed Tim Ronnebaum Parks and Recreation Committee Appointment.

Other New Business Items & Information
*1. Approval of City Council Meeting Minutes
2. Council approved the marina price list after a C. J. Geotis report. The Near Shore Waters Committee recommended the current structure. Geotis addressed Servais objection to unfair competition with local businesses. Council directed the manager to bring back a resolution to set policy to charge not more than the average rates from the local businesses.

Quasi-Judicial Public Hearings
Council approved the SH3 LTD Development Agreement amendment. This is for the redevelopment of the 1996 Overseas Highway & 15th Street Ocean property. Changes include different application of transient development conversion factors, less marina slips, and modification to the site plan. Robert Spotswood offered to pay $100,000 for significant city projects like US1 beautification. He offered to get the money to the city upon issuance of permit. Council wanted the construction to start as soon as possible.

Council approved the SH3 LTD Major Conditional Use Permit authorizing the redevelopment of property at 1996 Overseas Highway and 15th Street Ocean. This permit allows for the integration of certain land uses and structures.

Ordinances for First Public Hearing
Ordinance 2007-33 provided an amendment to City Code Chapter 6, establishing fee waiver procedures for affordable housing. Approved 4 – 1, with Vice Mayor Tempest voting no.

Resolutions for Adoption
Resolution 2007-135 adopted a stormwater utility special assessment rate for the fiscal year commencing October 1, 2007.

*Resolution 2007-136 authorized a billing service agreement with Professional Practice Support, Inc.

*Resolution 2007-137 authorized an agreement with Professional Emergency Services, Inc.

*Resolution 2007-138 approved Sweetwater Corporation for wastewater haul out services and disposal agreement amendment. The cost is $51,150.

City manager pulled this resolution. Resolution 2007-139 exempted city employees and their families from ambulance fees.

Resolution 2007-140 approved M. T. Causely agreement amendment concerning the provision of building code administrator services.

Resolution 2007-141 authorized the Bishop, Rosasco, & Company agreement for the provision of finance director services. Councilman Vasil wanted staff to take over some clerical duties to save taxpayer money, but staffing is way understaffed due to hiring freeze and exodus of city employees.

Citizens' Comments
None

Council comments
1. Worthington stated that the Longhorn property needs cleaned up, as well as the Anchor Motel. City Manager Mike Puto said that should be happening within weeks.
2. Cinque agreed with Worthington.
3. Tempest thanked council for its generosity for funding the MHS courtyard bricks.
4. Bull wanted to schedule a special-call meeting to consider the 104th Street affordable housing RFP respondents numbering three. They tried to schedule it for October 17th, 4 PM, Sheriff’s Aviation Hangar Second-Floor Training Room. Council meeting on marina/Boot Key improvement is scheduled for October 2nd, 6 PM, Marathon Garden Club.

Adjournment
7:37 PM

What's Happening! September went whizzing by so very fast. Budgets were hatched. The Marathon KMART discriminates. The Middle Keys Community Land Trust continues to save workforce families throughout the Middle Keys. The Presidential tea party is getting hotter and meaner.

Miscellany: Job turnover is a big problem for the Keys. Then why isn't a perspective employee hired on job performance abilities only? On the other side of the coin, why aren't poor performing employees fired? Bussing in employees is bad for Marathon, its economy, and its resident. While there are fine folks coming in on those buses, they go home outside of the Keys and take their money with them. What happened to common sense?

Finally: Yellow, yellow let it mellow; brown, brown flush it down. Good words to save water. Shower with friends. That can be fun. Use bathwater to keep plants green. Dance with some local natives to entice rain to fall from the skies. Rain, where art thou? Lake Okeechobee is getting lower. We need the rain up that way and how. Dance longer, harder, rain...

Kitty Talk
These journals are dedicated to Kitty GreyCat's spirit. She is at RainBow Bridge now along with her human friends, Leo and Doris. We all loved you, Kitty! Click the cat graphic to visit her Memorial page. Kitty born June 6, 1982. Died July 9, 1997. Please use our email form linked below to make suggestions or offer praise. Now, really, the cats have thoughts and meows that are badly interpreted by a human for publication here. So believe what you will, but enjoy nonetheless. All complaints, flames, & the like will end up in the litter box! >^..^<

Ebony: We have lots of stuff to meow about this month. All that rain is not nice. I finally get to go outside on the 25-foot lead. I seed a lizard and chased it right into the flower bed. I lost it, but I was pouncing and jumping and paw tapping to find it again. Then all of the sudden water fall from the sky. I got no where to hide and get WET! I don't like WET! But human beans come outside and get me. They wrapped me in a nice, warm towel, but then those human beans not let me unroll from that towel. They laughed at me. I never! >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, you always checkout the water in that big bowl them human beans sit on. I like to like inside them plastic curtains at them beans getting WET on purpose. I not quite sure what those beans are doing that for, except I nose they good human beans. They got each of us a warm bed mat with leopard fur stuff on one side and felt brown stuff on the other side. When you walk on it, it makes a funny crinkling sound. That scare you, but I not mind. Those bed mats are very warm and cuddly. >^..^<
Ebony: I was happy to be inside and dry and getting free finally from human beans wrapping me in a towel. Then the thunder boomers make me scared. I always like to be close to them human beans, but don't meow to them why. I have my pride, I do.  I not like all the scritching and petting them human beans do. They even baby talk to us. I not a kitten anymore. I might chase stuff when I forget, but I am an old grandma cat now. >^..^<
Abby: Me is a young cat. That is why human beans like to scritch my tummy and pet me and sing to me. I love them right back. I get white fur all over them. I don't know why human beans use tape to get all that white fur back off. It not make any sense. Like them human beans taking photos all the time. I be blinded by the flash and not nose what going on. Them human beans are hard to figger out, I meow. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby, I have to meow to you, that you an old cat too. You just not want to admit it. Every cat day is a great day, but every cat day ages us something awful. I not nose why those human beans live so long for. They only have one life, and we have nine lives, but they still live longer. >^..^<
Abby: I like to think about Rainbow Bridge where all the good animals go and they is not hungry, cold, or WET. We get to meet Kitty and Patches and other animal friends we have there. It be a lot of fun. I am glad I not have to wait all that human bean time to get to animal heaven. >^..^<
Ebony: Abby, you can meet human beans at Rainbow Bridge too. Kitty is sitting on dad human bean helping him cut up raw meat. Mom human bean protect Kitty from burning embers from the warming fire. Kitty sleeps through those embers what land on her. Smoked fur smells bad too. >^..^<
Abby: Ebony, I been looking at our list of meows for this month, and we do very good. We almost covered all the important meows what human beans, other cats, and interested squirrels might want to know about.  >^..^<
Ebony: What we got to meow about now is the cat food situation around here. Them human beans get their heads together and whisper a lot of stuff. They looking at Abby too. I think it all about how Abby throws up her food sometimes. >^..^<
Abby: I like to eat, and maybe I eat too fast. But sometimes all those good cat nuggets just want to pop out of my tummy. I not nose why. My doctor bean says he not nose either. I am healthy and wealthy and wise. >^..^<
Ebony: Well, that is debatable. I only upchuck the occasional hair ball. Use always yacking something up that you just ate. Them beans brought in a special food for you, but I get some too. They just want to make sure you not feel put out for having your own cat food. We still get those yummy nummy nuggets from Whiskas. I hear tell they going to make a lizard flavor nugget. That be nice. >^..^<
Abby: I have to interrupt you, Ebony. You starting to ramble. Must be your age, meow. That new food not change a thing. I still yacking it up, but I keep enough down to be the bestest cat anywhere. Well, all use out there, be good. We finally finished an article about what we supposed to meow about. Strange, huh? >^..^<

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Poetry Corner
"Black and Blacker"
September 27, 2007

A reddish glow
Shines a face
Eyes black holes
Motionless, quiet

In a deep cold
Frosty breath
In a darkness
Black and blacker

Still, a life
Senseless in a
Moment of despair
Soundless but alive

The reddened glow
Shows cold sweat
Beading, running
But fearless still

Death slithers
On wet floor
Astride hooves
Black and blacker

Sudden light
As moons rise
Deadens the red
Bleeding it dry

The black holes
Eyes aglow slowly
Into infinity timeless
Patient death waiting

© 2007 L. E. Shaffer

Hockey Puck
NHL: NHL preseason has started.

PGA: Tiger Woods had a good day to get up on the leader board at Deutsche Bank Championship during Round 2 at TPC Boston.  Tiger Woods had another good day to finished 2^nd at Deutsche Bank Championship during the final round at TPC Boston. Tiger Woods won the BMW Championship. He is now number one in the FEDEX Cup point system. Tiger Woods won the Tour Championship by 8 strokes and captured the first FEDEX Cup.

NASCAR NEXTEL: At the NASCAR NEXTEL CUP California race, Jeff finished 22^nd and remains 1^st in points. Dale finished 5^th and 13^th in points, one spot out of the chase or playoffs. Bill finished 26^th and is 40^th in points. At Richmond, Dale Jr. finished 21^st and remained 13^th in points. Jeff finished 4^th and is now 2^nd in points, because Jimmie Johnson has one more victory. Johnson won Richmond. The chase is on. At the New Hampshire race, the first of the Chase, Jeff Gordon finished 2^nd to tied for 1^st in the Chase Points. Dale Earnhardt Jr. finished 16^th and is firmly 13^th in overall NEXTEL Cup Points. NASCAR NEXTEL Cup’s Dover Race saw Jeff Gordon finish 11^th to be 1st in the Chase points. Dale Earnhardt Jr. finished 3^rd and remains 13^th in points.

NBA: The NBA is close to starting up as well.

NFL: Miami Dolphins have lost three in a row.

MLB: MLB playoffs are coming soon.

WTA: Venus and Serena Williams are improving every week. Serena and Venus Williams keep moving up at the US Open. Serena and Venus Williams keep moving up at the US Open. Justine Henin had to beat both Venus and Serena Williams to move up at the Grand Slam tournament at Flushing Meadows. That is quite the accomplishment.

 

Book Three Twins of the Dark Star
Book One Tears from Ao, Book Two The Mountains of Ao and four poetry collections, Pages of Life, Visions of Life, Moments of Life, and The Book of Kalian Mysticism are available at http://RunesofAo.com/aobp/. The Runes of Ao project is ongoing. Book Three Twins of the Dark Star novel is in the outlining phase and will most likely take a while as the complexity of the Ao series increases. Falling Star poetry collection is a work in progress. A collaboration with K. Young on a novella called Dragon Embers is now published on the fan site known as Runes of Ao.com. Other dragon artwork is available as well. Finally, in collaboration with K. Young and Linda Hall, a group novel project is in progress and currently titled Starsongs. We currently are at an impasse.

The Dull Stuff
All opinions expressed do not necessarily reflect those of this magazine, company, or its advertisers. Inputs, email, suggestions, and letters to this journal are subject to approval by the Journal Editor. Submittals may be edited for content and length and become the creative property for the one-time nonexclusive publication of:

Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
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PO Box 501833
Marathon FL 33050-1833
(305) 743-9648 voice/fax
(305) 289-4180
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Internet URLs: www.RunesofAo.com
www.RunesofAo.com/roa/
www.RunesofAo.com/aobp/
www.RunesofAo.com/ebony/
www.RunesofAo.com/abby/
www.RunesofAo.com/LarryShaffer/

Publication date: September 28, 2007
Author: L. E. Shaffer
Company: Shaffer Novels/Poetry Company &
Shaffer Internet Publishing Company
© 1995 - 2009, 2010 L. E. SHAFFER
ALL RIGHTS RESERVED WORLDWIDE
PRINTED IN THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
FIRST PRINTING; ELECTRONIC & PRINT MEDIA

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